Model History

Sometimes referred to as the Ur Quattro – Ur meaning “original” in German – this is the car that redefined Audi, a trailblazer that gave the company a glamorous edge, an enviable international competition record, and the right to challenge traditional supercar manufacturers.

The Quattro became a bedroom pin-up of teenage boys and provided Audi with a technological advantage that the rest of the car industry scrambled to copy. It was not the world’s first high performance, permanent four-wheel drive coupé, but Britain’s 1968 Jensen Interceptor FF was a highly specialised, very low volume model. Indeed it was the Quattro that put all-wheel drive on the map as a real-world option.

The Quattro was loosely based on the Audi 80 from which the prototype was developed. The longitudinal driveline made it relatively easy to extend a propshaft to the rear, while the rear suspension was essentially the front suspension and subframe turned 180 degrees. A centre differential allowed drive to be apportioned between the two axles, preventing wind-up. Power originally came from the 200 saloon’s 2.1-litre 200hp turbocharged ‘five’, allowing a top speed of 137mph and a 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds. Improved performance for the masses arrived in 1989 with the introduction of the 20v version, now with 220hp, a wider torque spread, and a Torsen diff. Around 1,000 20v RR units were sold.

Yet it wasn’t the Quattro’s performance so much as its astounding road-holding, agility and refinement that created an impact. Suddenly, the Audi Quattro was one of the fastest point-to-point cars on earth. It was partially hand-built on a dedicated line at Ingolstadt, every car undergoing extensive static and test-track quality assurance including a 100mph run.

Originally available in left-hand drive only, three engine types were used, and the models are now known accordingly as the WR Quattro, the MB Quattro, and the RR or ‘20v’ Quattro, which was the final evolution of the hugely successful model. It is understood that just 295 20v Quattros were produced in right-hand drive for the UK market.

Exterior

This rare 20v Quattro is finished in glossy Crystal Silver Metallic (LY7T). The bodywork remains to a nice standard overall having been treated to a full re-paint some years ago. As to be expected with an older refresh there are some imperfections to report, including some minor chips and discreet crack low down on the front bumper. The trim throughout retains a good finish and all the lenses are clear and moisture-free. Fully undersealed it’s a very useable classic, to be driven and enjoyed.

Interior

The interior remains in great original condition. The seats present well with quattro cloth centres and grey leather bolsters, the upholstery showing little wear or marking to the fabric. The stitched leather theme continues to the doors, dash and centre console, where the adjacent trim remains in excellent unmarked condition. All the switchgear is still pleasingly solid to operate.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The coveted 20v ‘RR’ engine remains in good order having never been abused or modified, and the under-bonnet area is tidy. Despite residing in storage for a number of years the car drives well but may require some mechanical recommissioning if put back into regular use; in such a case we would also recommend changing the cambelt, which was last done at 74k miles. The low mileage of 81k is well documented in the History File with fifteen entries in the original maintenance booklet.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

Filling those iconic box arches the original 15-inch wheels look great, displaying only minor age-related wear. The alloys are shod in quality tyres all round with plenty of tread remaining. Out on the road the brakes do a good job of stopping the car quickly and in a straight line, with the discs and pads still showing plenty of meat left. The front suspension lower ball joints were replaced in January.

History File

Believed one of only 295 UK RHD examples produced, this 20v Quattro was first registered in May 1990. The first owner was the supplying dealer, Stapeley Motors of Crewe. The car has seen just five subsequent keepers over the years, remaining under the current ownership since 2007.

Plenty of period documentation is included in the History File. The original Audi document wallet is still present with the stamped service booklet and all dealer-supplied handbooks. Services have been carried out at the following mileages: 10k, 20k, 21k, 27k, 42k, 49k, 54k, 59k, 64k, 68k, 72k, 74k, 75k, 78k, and most recently at the current mileage of 81k. The MOT is valid until January 2020.

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